howtosupplement
Inflammation/Mobility/Digestion

Boswellia

Herbal resin extract that inhibits inflammatory enzymes and may reduce joint pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel symptoms.

Boswellia

Boswellia

58
score
B
evidence
Caution
risk
Use with caution

This supplement may interact with medications, medical conditions or sensitive populations. Review safety before use.

Quick Take

Worth considering for knee osteoarthritis or ulcerative colitis; limited return for general wellness.

Boswellia serrata is a tree resin used in Ayurvedic medicine, yielding boswellic acids (notably AKBA). It works mainly by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, which lowers pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. The best evidence is for easing knee osteoarthritis pain and improving function; smaller studies suggest benefit in ulcerative colitis and asthma. People with chronic inflammatory conditions are the most likely to notice a meaningful effect.

Proven Benefits

01
Improves knee OA pain/function
02
Improves UC symptoms
03
May lower inflammation
04
May improve asthma symptoms
05
May improve RA symptoms
06
May improve psoriasis symptoms

Protocol

Amount
300-500 mg
Frequency
2-3 times daily
When
With meals to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

Onset Time

4-8 weeks for joint pain; 4-6 weeks for digestive symptoms.

Who Should Consider

Adults with knee osteoarthritis
People with ulcerative colitis
People with chronic inflammatory joint pain
Those who want a non-NSAID OA option

How It Works

Boswellic acids, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), selectively inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, reducing synthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. They also modulate NF-κB, TNF-α, and other cytokine pathways, collectively dampening localized and systemic inflammation.

Updated 5/19/2026